Executive Master in International Relations (EMIR)
Geneva School of Diplomacy and International RelationsProgram Overview
The Master's (Master's Degree) in Executive Master in International Relations at Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations is a rigorous postgraduate programme delivered on-campus at Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations. Designed for graduates and professionals seeking advanced expertise in international relations, the programme develops both theoretical foundations and applied skills essential for today's competitive environment.
Spanning 9 months, students engage with cutting-edge research, industry-relevant case studies, and practical projects. Instruction is delivered in English by research-active faculty with professional expertise.
The programme culminates in a dissertation or capstone project. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles, research careers, and doctoral study in international relations.
Key Program Features
What makes GSD’s EMIR programme unique?
- Special access to UN and other diplomatic events
- 4 teaching modules spread over one year
- Online, self-paced activities
- Flexibility in choosing the modules
- Extensive networking opportunities
- Vibrant international student community
- Learn from real practitioners
- Personalised approach to student needs
- Strong focus on student well-being
- Obtain specialised skills for an international career
EMIR LEARNING OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME
- Evaluate the dynamics of 21st century diplomacy and international politics.
- Identify new dimensions of foreign policy, geopolitics, global security, development and sustainability.
- Explain global governance issues.
- Implement negotiation, communication, and leadership skills and tools to effectively meet complex situations, manage crises, and encourage international cooperation.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Executive Master in International Relations programme at Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations develop the advanced knowledge, analytical skills, and professional networks that leading employers in international relations value. Common career destinations include:
- Diplomat / Foreign Service Officer: Represent national interests through bilateral and multilateral negotiations.
- International Development Specialist: Design and evaluate aid programmes in developing nations.
- Think Tank Researcher: Conduct policy research and advocacy on global issues.
Graduates have secured roles at multinational corporations, government agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and high-growth startups. Many also progress to doctoral (PhD) programmes.
Program Curriculum
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the programme, graduates will be able to:
- Analyse global power dynamics, governance systems, and multilateral processes Apply advanced policy analysis and strategic research to complex international challenges Demonstrate executive-level leadership and decision-making capabilities Engage effectively in diplomatic negotiation and international representation Translate analysis into strategic, professional, and institutional outcomes
- Analyse global power dynamics, governance systems, and multilateral processes
- Apply advanced policy analysis and strategic research to complex international challenges
- Demonstrate executive-level leadership and decision-making capabilities
- Engage effectively in diplomatic negotiation and international representation
- Translate analysis into strategic, professional, and institutional outcomes
The programme is delivered over 14 months , combining executive-level coursework, applied engagement, and a final capstone project. Step 1 – Diplomacy and Multilateral Foundations Global power dynamics and multilateral negotiation Governance structures and international decision-making Immersive Geneva engagement with institutional briefings and applied exercises Step 2 – Digital and Security Competencies Digital diplomacy, AI governance, and counter-disinformation Strategic security, crisis negotiation, sanctions, and regional security frameworks Step 3 – Trade and Business Diplomacy International trade systems and WTO mechanisms Corporate diplomacy, ESG strategy, and public-private partnerships Final Stage – Foresight, Leadership and Capstone Strategic foresight and geopolitical risk analysis Capstone Project (18 ECTS): thesis or applied project addressing a real diplomatic or global policy challenge
Admission Requirements
EMIR Entry Requirements
- Applicants should possess an undergraduate degree from a university or its equivalent.
- Students are encouraged to discuss the course with GSD academic tutors prior to the submission of the application.
- Applicants should have a minimum of 3 years of professional working experience
- Proficiency in English is required
Application Documents
- Colour copy of passport photo page
- A current CV
- A motivation letter (550 words approximately)
- Transcripts and Bachelor diploma
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Proof of English language proficiency (or waiver, if applicable)
- All applicants will also be asked to participate in a brief interview, conducted by the admissions officer (online or in-person).
Tuition and Expenses
- Tuition Fee: 30,000 CHF (5 modules)
- Other Fees: Enrolment fee (non-refundable) CHF 500.- Application fee (non-refundable) CHF 300.-
- Enrolment fee (non-refundable) CHF 500.-
- Application fee (non-refundable) CHF 300.-
- These fees do NOT include travel, living accommodation, meals, medical or health insurance and the required study trip.
Financing your studies
- If you are going to live and study in Switzerland, it is important to establish a realistic and sustainable financial plan for the entire period of studies.
- Of course, obtaining a degree is an investment in your personal development and in your own future.
- The financial aspect, therefore, should not be the only factor when deciding to begin or continue your studies in Geneva.
What makes GSD’s EMIR programme unique?
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
EUR 17200
Tuition and Expenses
- Tuition Fee: 30,000 CHF (5 modules)
- Other Fees: Enrolment fee (non-refundable) CHF 500.- Application fee (non-refundable) CHF 300.-
- Enrolment fee (non-refundable) CHF 500.-
- Application fee (non-refundable) CHF 300.-
- These fees do NOT include travel, living accommodation, meals, medical or health insurance and the required study trip.
Financing your studies
- If you are going to live and study in Switzerland, it is important to establish a realistic and sustainable financial plan for the entire period of studies.
- Of course, obtaining a degree is an investment in your personal development and in your own future.
- The financial aspect, therefore, should not be the only factor when deciding to begin or continue your studies in Geneva.
What makes GSD’s EMIR programme unique?
- Special access to UN and other diplomatic events
- 4 teaching modules spread over one year
- Online, self-paced activities
- Flexibility in choosing the modules
- Extensive networking opportunities
- Vibrant international student community
- Learn from real practitioners
- Personalised approach to student needs
- Strong focus on student well-being
- Obtain specialised skills for an international career
EMIR LEARNING OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME
- Evaluate the dynamics of 21st century diplomacy and international politics.
- Identify new dimensions of foreign policy, geopolitics, global security, development and sustainability.
- Explain global governance issues.
- Implement negotiation, communication, and leadership skills and tools to effectively meet complex situations, manage crises, and encourage international cooperation.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Financial Aid & Funding Opportunities
A range of funding options may be available to students enrolling at Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations. Explore all options early — many scholarships have deadlines months before programme start.
- University Scholarships: Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations may offer merit-based, need-based, or programme-specific scholarships for postgraduate students. Contact the international or financial aid office for current awards.
- Government Scholarships (): National governments often fund outbound and inbound student mobility. Check your home country's government scholarship schemes (e.g., national student loan bodies, ministry of education awards).
- International Scholarships: Major funders include: Commonwealth Scholarships, Fulbright (USA programmes), Chevening (UK), Erasmus+ (Europe), DAAD (Germany), Campus France, Australia Awards, and many more.
- Employer Sponsorship: Professionals returning to study may negotiate tuition sponsorship with their employer, particularly for MBA or executive programmes.
- Graduate Assistantships / Fellowships: Some universities offer funded research or teaching assistant positions that include a stipend and partial or full tuition waiver.
- External Foundations: Rotary Foundation, Aga Khan Foundation, Ford Foundation, and many discipline-specific bodies fund postgraduate study globally.
- Payment Plans: Flexible instalment plans may allow you to spread tuition payments across the academic year.
About Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations
Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations
Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations (often abbreviated GSD) is a private higher‑education institution in Geneva, Switzerland, focused on diplomacy, international relations, and...
University Profile- Language English
- Duration 9 months
